Those of you brave enough to try the Beta 1, Beta 2 or even the RTM version of Windows Phone know that one of the steps needed to achieve this is the installation of a beta Zune client that supports connecting Mango-based phones.

Microsoft has just updated its Zune client to version 4.8.2345.0 and the update will hit both those running the old “final” version 4.7 and those who installed a previous beta of 4.8. After installation, Mango-based devices can connect to Zune and successfully sync. This is just normal as we’re just hours away from the Japanese Fujitsu-Toshiba IS12T Windows Phone on KDDI.

Update: Other changes in the Zune software include renaming Zune Pass to Zune Pass Music, some UI enhancements, 48-hour movie rentals, support for M-rated (Mature) content, the option to hide purchase confirmation dialog for faster app checkout and the ability to see what apps are compatible with the Windows Phone you own.

Additionally, you can skip the phone back-up process but if you choose to go with it, the back-up files will eat less hard drive space and the update process itself only needs one press of the Update button, as subsequent updates, if available, will install automatically.

You can check with Windows Update to get the new version, check for updates from the old Zune client or head over to the Microsoft Download Center and install the refresh.